Smith, who was in town for a four-game series as a member of the Camden Riversharks, admired the way Upshaw took the time to talk individually with some of his players during batting practice.

While Smith meant no disrespect to Riversharks manager Ron Karkovice, seeing Upshaw providing this type of instruction left a lasting impression. Upshaw was a manager that he would like to play for, and in a surprising turn of events, Smith will now have that opportunity.

Released by the Riversharks on May 14, Smith was signed by the Bluefish Wednesday to add depth in the outfield.

"I was a little frustrated (getting released) because I didn't know why," Smith said. "But I look at it as it happens. I feel like I'm in a better place now."

Smith, who can play all three outfield positions, hit .276 with one double, one RBI and one run scored in 10 games with the Riversharks. He was 5-for-10 with a double and a run scored in three games against the Bluefish this season.

"To tell you the truth, just hitting one time with him, I just learned a lot," Smith said. "Some stuff I was like, `OK.' I wasn't sure about some mechanics. I asked him and I'm like, `Wow. OK.' I feel good."

Smith, 29, hit .304 with 13 doubles, one home run and 41 RBIs in 85 games for Edinburg in the independent North American League last season. He also had career-highs of 55 runs scored and 59 stolen bases.

With no definitive timetable for the return of center fielder Adam Greenberg, who underwent surgery May 23 after tearing the nail off of his right index finger, the addition of Smith was a necessity. He started in right field Wednesday against the York Revolution.

"He's got some tools, some raw tools still," Upshaw said. "But he's got some ability ... and he's a pretty good defensive player. We would like to have four starters who are just rotating. So if he can earn his spot at the bat, sure, he's going to earn more and more playing time. That gets Prentice (Redman) and Greeny and Austin (Krum) off their feet."